What is Valentine's Day?
Valentine's Day, a liturgical celebration of one or two early Christian saints named Valentinus, began as St. Valentine's Day, a liturgical celebration of one or two early Christian saints named Valentinus. As the art of courtly love was then flourishing, the tradition of courtly love was first identified during the High Middle Ages. This day in 18th-century England, this day has developed into an event in which couples demonstrated their love for each other by delivering flowers, offering confectionery, and sending Valentine cards.
Ancient history
Who or what was commemorated in mid-February is uncertain. Some people are martyred saints by the name of Valentine or Valentinus. The saint defied a decree by Emperor Claudius II who outlawed marriage for young men because he believed single men were better soldiers, according to the most popular tale. Young lovers would marry them in secrecy rather than have them sneaking around (or believing in the power of love). However, it may have been another Valentine who conducted the marriages. At least two of them were jailed for their conduct, according to either way.
We're taken back to a pagan festival called Lupercalia, which could be another potential source for Valentine's Day. The Christian Church celebrated St. Valentine's Day in the middle of February as a way to discourage people from attending the fertility festival.
